Discussions

Hey ebrandon!  
We recently have taken in a rehomed puppy. He's 9 months, sweet and loving, but has one major downfall. He pees in the house as soon as you stop giving him attention, on the rugs, on the bed, on the floor...  
 
He's gone through puppy classes, gets regular walks and potty breaks, but still holds enough urine to piddle out of spite. Vet has declared him healthy, and the theme is: he does it once you stop giving him attention (unfortunately we can't catch him in the act to give him a time out). Has anyone dealt with this, and what tips or tricks do you have? We're at our wits end.

I have never dealt with this what came to mind is something like anxiety separation even for a short time he gets nervous and feels abandoned maybe something like a thunder jacket for dogs might be worth a try , good luck

Maybe have a kennel and when you are done paying attention to him or need to be elsewhere put him away and when you let him out take him straight outside first.  
 
Make sure to clean in the spots he’s went really well so he’s less apt to re mark where he has gone.  
 
Also maybe consider taking him to a doggie daycare during the days while your away at work etc so when your home in the evenings he’s tired.  
I recommend The Paw Resort and Wellness Centre

I agree with the kennel idea. Is he neutered? That may also help some. Maybe find other things, toys to keep him busy...peanut butter in a Kong, treat dispensing toys. Maybe more of a mental workout, not just attention but treats for tricks. Mental exercises can be just as good to wear them out in addition to physical exercise. Check out Susan Garrett’s blog, she is an excellent trainer. So many good tips. Good luck!

He is neutered. The thundershirt is definitely worth a try, maybe he has more separation anxiety issues than we realize. He is fine being in his kennel when we're out but if he knows we're home he takes it as punishment and screams the whole time. But we can't watch him every second so I'm sure he'd get used to it! Thanks all!

Is it possible to leash the pup to you or family member while doing any other household chores, watching tv, etc. It would keep the pup close and still learn that he/ she can't have your full attention. We had a pug that did his business in the house at 3 yrs old since he wasn't properly trained. It took months but he did change his behavior over time.

just wondering how things are going ?

Well he piddled on the floor when I went to make the bed, but we've been experimenting the last couple days just walking him around the block and ensuring he goes a couple times (he holds some, which is how he can have house accidents often!) So that's been helping. Definitely going to order a thundershirt, and working on the tethering thing without tripping on him! He's definitely going to take some extra work! But we will get there...

It must be very frustrating for your family and I think that you are all great for taking on this puppy.  
Maybe doggie diapers would help, although it might piss off the pup even more. Pardon the pun.

I had a boy with attitude and belly bands were a must with him. I’ll try to post the photo but we got ours off amazon. They were called wegreeco. They never leaked and were washable.